“It’s great to get the win,” said Albasini. “The first win with a new team is always very special. I worked hard in the off season. To see this work pay off for me and the team is important.”

The Swiss rider, 31, winner of a stage at the Vuelta a España last year, assumed control of the general classification.

“I realized if I could unload the other guys in the break, I had a good chance of making it to the finish,” said Albasini. “At that point, I wasn’t sure if I could hold off the bunch chasing behind. I had Vittorio Algeri behind me giving me information and willing me onto the finish. I really appreciate the work of the team that put me in the position to win.”